Statistics indicate that 1 in 5 Americans skip breakfast. However, research shows that breakfast can help you achieve an even-keeled and positive mood. Moreover, it can boost your metabolism, causing you to burn more calories throughout the day. Likewise, improving your short-term memory and boosting your concentration is easier when you eat breakfast. Fortunately, certain breakfast items are brain-friendly, including the following.
- Avocado
Avocados are popular among many people for good reasons. For starters, it is a good source of folate, which prevents the buildup of homocysteine that affects circulation and nutrient delivery to the brain, leading to depression and cognitive dysfunction. This, in turn, can improve your mood and cause you to be more productive. Additionally, avocados contain omega-3 fatty acids, which improve blood supply to your prefrontal cortex. They also have Vitamin E that protects your brain membrane from oxidation and prevents dementia. Fortunately, you can enjoy various avocado recipes for your breakfast, so keep this in mind. For instance, you can go with the classic avocado toast, using whole-grain bread options. Or, you can try the Mexican-inspired avocado and egg breakfast cups if you want to switch up your breakfast meals. Other meals worth considering are avocado breakfast salad, mango avocado smoothie, vegetarian breakfast tacos, etc.
- Tomato
Tomatoes are beneficial for reducing cortisol levels and preventing stress, as it contains a generous amount of vitamin C. They also contain lycopene and beta carotene, which protect the brain from cellular damage and reduce your risk of developing Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other cognitive diseases. Like avocados, tomatoes can be incorporated into almost every meal. For instance, you can consider cooking a tomato egg breakfast or breakfast tomatoes, so keep this in mind. You can also try scrambled eggs with lazy salsa, shakshuka, charred tomatoes with fried eggs on garlic toast, Caprese quiche, Greek scramble, and other tomato dishes.
- Smoked salmon
Another brain-friendly food worth considering is smoked salmon. It’s also abundant in omega-3 fatty acids that morph into protectins when digested. These protectins are responsible for reducing inflammation and reducing dementia risks. Additionally, salmon reduces cancer risks, protects your eyesight, and promotes weight loss. Seeing these benefits, you want to include salmon in your breakfast if you haven’t already. When purchasing smoked salmon, experts advise analyzing its state to determine its freshness. For instance, smoked salmon has a distinctive fishy odor, although you want to avoid those with an ammonia scent, as it indicates expiry or rottenness. Consequently, invest in options with even color, firmer meat, and moderate oil for the best results.
- Coffee
Many people enjoy morning coffee because it contains enough caffeine to increase energy levels and boost metabolism. However, it’s also great for mental wellness. Studies indicate that coffee prevents brain receptors from binding with adenosine, which causes fatigue. Likewise, it decreases depression risk by reducing oxidation and fighting inflammation. Despite these benefits, taking coffee moderately is advisable, as excess consumption can cause more harm than good. You can get more information about coffee here.
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